Keighley Cougars chairman Neil Spencer insists the club’s winding-up order will have no effect on plans for next season.

HM Revenue and Customs initiated proceedings after the two parties failed to come to agreement on the repayment of a long-standing tax bill.

But Spencer has urged fans not to panic and believes the issue will be resolved soon.

An appeal hearing takes place next Wednesday but the club are talking to both HMRC and the Rugby Football League in a bid to wrap things up before then.

“When you see that the club’s being wound up, it seems like a disaster,” said Spencer.

“But we have known about this for some time and we have been talking with HMRC and the RFL. Hopefully we’ll be able to reach a satisfactory solution.

“The court appearance is on December 9 and we’re either going to have to go to that to appeal or HMRC will accept what we are offering.”

Spencer also stressed that head coach Barry Eaton’s playing budget for the forthcoming Championship season would not be altered.

“Obviously, the team and Barry were the first people we spoke to and I assured them we were going to go forward with what we have planned for the new season,” said Spencer.

“The budget is looking good and if HMRC accept our proposal, then there will be no problems.

“We’re not worried. It was difficult, especially as we were in Championship One this year. Towards the back end of the season, we had started to get crowds of around 800 down at Cougar Park but you need more supporters to help what you are trying to do.

“Next season we’ve got a lot of big games and we’re in for a good thing. It’s important to keep the team together to compete at that level.”

Interest in the forthcoming season has not slowed despite the news.

“I was at the RFL for a meeting on Monday and, while I was out, people were still coming in for season tickets and someone wanted to sponsor three players,” said Spencer.

“I’m so pleased they are still showing interest despite this and I’m grateful to the supporters for showing patience and trusting we are doing the best for the Cougars.”